The Distant Dream of Israeli Normalization with Lebanon

Israeli normalization with Lebanon is unlikely due to the enduring strength of the Lebanese resistance and political complexities. Despite Israeli claims of progressing towards normalization, challenges including regional dynamics and historical failures obstruct any potential agreements. The necessity to neutralize Iranian influence and the resilience of groups like Hezbollah play critical roles in these discussions.

Normalization between Israel and Lebanon remains unattainable due to ongoing geopolitical and domestic challenges. Israel’s ambitions for expanding its influence conflict with the Lebanese resistance front, which has continuously undermined such efforts. Despite claims from Israeli officials about advancing discussions toward normalization, practical realities hinder progress, particularly given Lebanon’s resistance against Israeli occupation.

Israeli political sources have suggested that the normalization discussions are comprehensive and part of a broader strategy under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They hint at a reciprocal approach to negotiations concerning territorial demands. However, history shows that since its establishment, Israel has struggled to implement normalization policies, facing resistance from a politically fragmented Lebanese authority tied to external influences.

Israel perceives a weakened resistance front as its opportunity to impose normalization conditions, particularly following a series of assaults on Lebanon. Yet, the resilience of Lebanese resistance, which maintains substantial support among its populace, complicates Israel’s ambitions. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen recently remarked that normalization with Lebanon is premature, emphasizing that neutralizing external support from Iran is essential to any potential agreement.

Israel’s desire for a normalization agreement stems from its quest for military and security dominance in West Asia, with many analysts suggesting that such an agreement would predominantly benefit Israel. The United States has also expressed caution regarding Israeli advances, as seen with the NSO Group being blacklisted due to security concerns.

Efforts towards normalization have faced historical setbacks, such as the cancellation of the 1983 normalization agreement by rising Lebanese resistance. Netanyahu has consistently asserted that true peace with Lebanon remains elusive in the context of persistent resistance, underscoring that groups like Hezbollah play a pivotal role in obstructing normalization efforts.

In summary, Israeli normalization with Lebanon is hindered by a complex interplay of military, political, and social factors. Historical precedents and current resistance developments further complicate any ambitions for peace, as both nations are embroiled in deeper issues concerning sovereignty and external influences. Without significant changes in the regional balance of power, particularly regarding Iran’s influence, normalization remains a distant aspiration for Israel and Lebanon.

Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com